Mario began his investment career in 1999 with Vanguard mutual funds in Valley Forge, PA, where he consulted institutions and financial advisors on investment policy, portfolio construction, and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). He also held roles as a research analyst, a municipal bond fund specialist, and others during his tenure.
In 2003 he earned the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation, widely regarded as the highest standard in the investment profession, and he continues to mentor aspiring Charter candidates and young investment professionals. Mario relocated to Charleston in 2010 to serve as Chief Investment Officer for a respected financial planning firm before establishing East Bay, the collaborative partner firm of Ballentine Capital Advisors. Mario is Past President of CFA® Society South Carolina and Former Chairman of the College of Charleston Finance Department Advisory Board.
His approach to investments and the industry has been featured in Investment News, NAPFA Advisor Magazine, South Carolina Public Radio, and other publications and media outlets. Mario is active in recreational sports and the Charleston community, is an avid traveler and SCUBA diver, and enjoys spending time with his wife Piper, their daughter Pepper, dog Cady, and Agnes the cat.
Learn more and connect with Mario on LinkedIn.
